Download Yard-Man 573 Lawn Mower User Manual

Operator’s Manual
20" Mulching Lawn
Mower
MODEL 573
IMPORTANT: Read safety rules and instructions carefully before operating equipment.
Warning: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brushcovered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if
any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator. In the State of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands.
A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box
361131 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
FORM NO.
769-00514.fm
(10/2002)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Content
Page
Important Safe Operation Practices................................................................... 3
Slope Guage...................................................................................................... 6
Assembling Your Lawn Mower .......................................................................... 7
Know Your Lawn Mower .................................................................................... 8
Operating Your Lawn Mower ............................................................................. 9
Making Adjustments .......................................................................................... 10
Maintaining Your Lawn Mower .......................................................................... 10
Off-Season Storage ........................................................................................... 12
Troubleshooting................................................................................................. 13
Parts List............................................................................................................ 14
FINDING MODEL NUMBER
This Operator’s Manual is an important part of your new Lawn Mower. It will help you assemble, prepare
and maintain the unit for best performance. Please read and understand what it says.
Before you start assembling your new equipment, please locate the model plate on the
equipment and copy the information from it in the space provided below. The information on
the model plate is very important if you need help from our Customer Support Department or
an authorized dealer.
•
You can locate the model number by standing behind the unit in the operating position and looking
down at the cutting deck. A sample model plate is explained below. For future reference, please copy
the model number and the serial number of the equipment in the space below.
(Model Number)
www.yardman.com
(Serial Number)
MTD LLC
P. O. BOX 361131
CLEVELAND,OH 44136
330-220-4683
800-800-7310
Copy the model number here:
Copy the serial number here:
ENGINE INFORMATION
The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related issues with regards to performance, powerrating, specifications, warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer’s Owner’s/Operator’s
Manual packed separately with your unit for more information.
CALLING CUSTOMER SUPPORT
If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation or
maintenance of this unit, please call the Customer Support Department.
Call 1- (330) 220-4MTD (4683) or 1- (800)-800-7310 to reach a Customer Support
representative. Please have your unit’s model number and serial number ready when you
call. See previous section to locate this information. You will be asked to enter the serial
number in order to process your call .
For more details about your unit, visit our website at www.yardman.com
2
SECTION 1: IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES
WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger
the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual
before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal
injury. When you see this symbol—HEED ITS WARNING.
WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit
chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
WARNING: This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this manual. As with
any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious injury. This machine
is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could
result in serious injury or death.
General Operation
1. Read this operator’s manual carefully in its entirety
before attempting to assemble this machine. Read,
understand, and follow all instructions on the
machine and in the manual(s) before operation. Be
completely familiar with the controls and the proper
use of this machine before operating it. Keep this
manual in a safe place for future and regular
reference and for ordering replacement parts.
2. This machine is a precision piece of power
equipment, not a plaything. Therefore, exercise
extreme caution at all times. Your unit has been
designed to perform one job: to mow grass. Do not
use it for any other purpose.
3. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate
this machine. Children 14 years old and over
should read and understand the operation
instructions and safety rules in this manual and
should be trained and supervised by a parent. Only
responsible individuals who are familiar with these
safe operation rules should use this machine.
4. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment
is to be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire,
bones, toys and other foreign objects which could
be tripped over or picked up and thrown by the
blade. Thrown objects can cause serious personal
injury. Plan your mowing pattern to avoid discharge
of material toward roads, sidewalks, bystanders
and the like. Also, avoid discharging material
against a wall or obstruction which may cause
discharged material to ricochet back toward the
operator.
5. To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object
injury, stay in the operator zone behind the handles
and keep bystanders, helpers, children and pets at
least 75 feet from the machine while it is in
operation. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
6. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles
during operation and while performing an
adjustment or repair to protect your eyes. Thrown
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
5.
6.
7.
8.
3
objects which ricochet can cause serious injury to
the eyes.
Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and closefitting slacks and shirts. Shirts and pants that cover
the arms and legs and steel-toed shoes are
recommended. Never operate this machine in bare
feet, sandals, slippery or light weight (e.g. canvas)
shoes.
Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or
under the cutting deck. Contact with the blade can
amputate hands and feet.
A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause
blade contact or thrown object injuries.
Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being
pulled over the foot during a fall caused by slipping
or tripping. Do not hold on to the mower if you are
falling; release the handle immediately.
Never pull the mower back toward you while you
are walking. If you must back the mower away from
a wall or obstruction first look down and behind to
avoid tripping and then follow these steps:
a. Step back from the mower to fully extend
your arms.
b. Be sure you are well balanced with sure
footing.
c. Pull the mower back slowly, no more than
half way toward you.
d. Repeat these steps as needed.
Do not operate the mower while under the influence
of alcohol or drugs.
Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on
units so equipped while starting engine.
The blade control handle is a safety device. Never
attempt to bypass its operation. Doing so makes
the safety device inoperative and may result in
personal injury through contact with the rotating
blade. The blade control handle must operate
easily in both directions and automatically return to
the disengaged position when released.
Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always be
sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
Do Not:
serious personal injury. If you feel you are losing
your footing, release the blade control handle
immediately and the blade will stop rotating within
three seconds.
Mow in daylight or good artificial light. Walk, never
run.
Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives,
walkways or roads.
If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally,
stop the engine and check immediately for the
cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes
to a complete stop before removing the grass
catcher or unclogging the chute. The cutting blade
continues to rotate for a few seconds after the
engine is shut off. Never place any part of the body
in the blade area until you are sure the blade has
stopped rotating.
Never operate mower without proper trail shield,
discharge cover, grass catcher, blade control
handle or other safety protective devices in place
and working. Never operate mower with damaged
safety devices. Failure to do so, can result in
personal injury.
Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a
burn. Do not touch.
Only use parts and accessories made for this
machine by the original equipment manufacturer
(O.E.M). Failure to do so can result in personal
injury.
If situations occur which are not covered in this
manual, use care and good judgment. Contact your
dealer for assistance. Telephone 1-800-800-7310
for the name of your nearest dealer.
1. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or
embankments, you could lose your footing or
balance.
2. Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as
shown on the slope gauge.
3. Do not mow on wet grass. Unstable footing could
cause slipping.
Children
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to
the presence of children. Children are often attracted to
the mower and the mowing activity. They do not
understand the dangers. Never assume that children
will remain where you last saw them.
1. Keep children out of the mowing area and under
the watchful care of a responsible adult other than
the operator.
2. Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the
area.
3. Before and while moving backwards, look behind
and down for small children.
4. Use extreme care when approaching blind corners,
doorways, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may
obscure your vision of a child who may run into the
mower.
5. Keep children away from hot or running engines.
They can suffer burns from a hot muffler.
6. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate
a power mower. Children 14 years old and over
should read and understand the operation
instructions and safety rules in this manual and
should be trained and supervised by a parent.
Slope Operation
Service
Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall
accidents which can result in severe injury. Operation
on slopes requires extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a
slope, do not mow it. Before operating this unit on a
slope or hilly area, use the slope gauge on page 6 to
measure slopes . If the slope is greater than 15
degrees, do not mow it.
Safe Handling Of Gasoline:
1. To avoid personal injury or property damage use
extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is
extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive.
Serious personal injury can occur when gasoline is
spilled on yourself or your clothes which can ignite.
2. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.
3. Use only an approved gasoline container.
4. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or
trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place
containers on the ground away from your vehicle
before filling.
5. If possible, remove gas-powered equipment from
the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this
is not possible, then refuel such equipment on a
trailer with a portable container, rather than from a
gasoline dispenser nozzle.
6. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel
tank or container opening at all times until fueling is
complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.
Do:
1. Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down.
Exercise extreme caution when changing direction
on slopes.
2. Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or
bumps which can cause you to slip or trip. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.
3. Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can
cause serious personal injury. If you feel you are
losing your balance, release the blade control
handle immediately, and the blade will stop rotating
within 3 seconds.
4
7. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other
sources of ignition.
8. Never fuel machine indoors because flammable
vapors will accumulate in the area.
9. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the engine
is hot or running. Allow engine to cool at least two
minutes before refueling.
10. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than ½
inch below bottom of filler neck to provide space for
fuel expansion.
11. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.
12. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and
equipment. Move unit to another area. Wait 5
minutes before starting the engine.
13. Never store the machine or fuel container inside
where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light as
on a water heater, space heater, furnace, clothes
dryer or other gas appliances.
14. To reduce fire hazard, keep mower free of grass,
leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel
spillage and remove any fuel soaked debris.
15. Allow a mower to cool at least 5 minutes before
storing.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
General Service:
1. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly
ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.
2. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make
certain the blade and all moving parts have
stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire and
ground against the engine to prevent unintended
starting.
3. Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at
frequent intervals for proper tightness. Also,
visually inspect blade for damage (e.g., bent,
cracked, worn) Replace blade with the original
equipment manufacture’s (O.E.M.) blade only,
listed in this manual. “Use of parts which do not
10.
11.
12.
meet the original equipment specifications may
lead to improper performance and compromise
safety!”
Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the
blade or wear gloves, and use extra caution when
servicing them.
Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the
equipment is in safe working condition.
Never tamper with safety devices. Check their
proper operation regularly.
After striking a foreign object, stop the engine,
disconnect the spark plug wire and ground against
the engine. Thoroughly inspect the mower for any
damage. Repair the damage before starting and
operating the mower.
Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height
adjustment while the engine is running.
Grass catcher components, discharge cover, and
trail shield are subject to wear and damage which
could expose moving parts or allow objects to be
thrown. For safety protection, frequently check
components and replace with original equipment
manufacturer’s (O.E.M.) parts only, listed in this
manual. Use of parts which do not meet the original
equipment specifications may lead to improper
performance and compromise safety.
Do not change the engine governor setting or
overspeed the engine. The governor controls the
maximum safe operating speed of the engine.
Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as
necessary.
Observe proper disposal laws and regulations.
Improper disposal of fluids and materials can harm
the environment.
Your Responsibility
Restrict the use of this power machine to persons
who read, understand and follow the warnings and
instructions in this manual and on the machine.
1299 AC
•
5
6
T
N DO
,
LINE
T ED
15°
G
NTIN
WARNING
RE
SE
PR E
°S
A 15
E
LOP
Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). A
riding mower could overturn and cause serious injury. If operating a walk-behind mower on such a slope, it is
extremely difficult to maintain your footing and you could slip, resulting in serious injury.
Operate RIDING mowers up and down slopes, never across the face of slopes.
Operate WALK-BEHIND mowers across the face of slopes, never up and down slopes.
DO
F OL
OR A FENCE POST
A CORNER OF A BUILDING
A POWER POLE
SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE
USE THIS PAGE AS A GUIDE TO DETERMINE SLOPES WHERE YOU MAY NOT OPERATE SAFELY.
SECTION 2: SLOPE GAUGE
SECTION 3: ASSEMBLING YOUR LAWN MOWER
To Remove Unit From Carton
•
•
•
•
Carriage Bolt
Remove staples, break glue on top flaps, or cut
tape at carton end and peel along top flap to open
carton.
Remove loose parts included with your unit (i.e.,
operator’s manual, etc.).
Cut along corners and lay carton down flat.
Remove packing material.
Roll or slide unit out of carton.
Saddle
Washer
Upper
Handle
Lower
Handle
Hand
Knob
IMPORTANT: This unit is shipped without gasoline.
Make sure to service engine with gasoline and oil as
instructed in the separate engine manual before
operating your mower.
Saddle Washer
Figure 2
•
NOTE: Reference to right or left side of the mower is
observed from the operating position.
•
Tools Required
Pair of pliers (not necessary, but helpful)
Hairpin
Clip in
Inner Hole
Weld
Pin
Disconnect Spark Plug Wire
•
Remove the hairpin clips from the outer holes in the
weld pins on the handle mounting brackets.
Using a pair of pliers, squeeze one leg of the lower
handle against the handle mounting bracket. Insert
the hairpin clip into the inner hole on the weld pin.
See Figure 3. Repeat on other side.
Disconnect spark plug wire from the spark plug and
attach rubber boot to a bolt on the engine to
ground. See Figure 1.
Lower
Handle
Handle
Mounting
Bracket
Rubber Boot
Figure 3
Attaching Starter Rope
•
Spark Plug
Figure 1
Insert starter rope into
rope guide
Attaching Handle
•
The rope guide is attached to the right side of the
upper handle. Loosen the wing nut which secures
the rope guide. For location of the wing nut, see
Figure 4.
Pull up and back on the upper handle to raise the
handle into the operating position. Make certain the
lower handle is seated securely into the handle
mounting brackets. Tighten the hand knobs on
each side of the handle (carriage bolts and saddle
washers must be seated properly into the handle as
shown). See Figure 2.
Wing Nut
Rope
Guide
NOTE: Your mower is shipped with the handle in the
higher height position. If you wish to lower the height of
the handle, refer to the instructions for handle height
adjustment on page 10.
Figure 4
•
7
With the spark plug wire disconnected and
grounded, hold the blade control handle against the
•
•
Converting to Side Discharge
upper handle, and pull the starter rope out of the
engine. Release the blade control handle. Slip the
starter rope into the rope guide. Tighten the wing
nut. See Figure 4.
Make certain all nuts and bolts are tightened
securely.
Attach cables to the lower handle with the two cable
ties already on the lower handle, insert pegs on
cable ties into the holes on the lower handle. Pull
cable ties tight and cut off the extra. See Figure 5.
•
Your mower has been shipped as a mulcher. To
convert it to a side-discharge mower, lift the
mulching plug. Slide the two hooks on the sidedischarge chute under the hinge pin on the
mulching plug assembly. Lower the mulching plug.
See Figure 6.
Mulching
Plug
Cable Tie
Lower
Handle
Hinge
Pin
Side
Discharge
Chute
Figure 5
Figure 6
SECTION 4: KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
Cutting Height Adjustment Lever
Compare Figure 7 with your equipment to get familiar
with the mower controls before operating it.
This lever, located at each wheel, lets you adjust cutting
height of the grass. Remember to put all four levers at
the same height position to avoid uneven cut.
Blade Control Handle
The blade control handle is located on the upper handle
of the mower. The blade control handle must be
depressed in order to operate the unit. Release the
blade control handle to stop the engine and blade.
Blade Control Handle
Rear Height
Adj. Lever
WARNING: This control mechanism is a
safety device. Never attempt to bypass its
operations. The blade will be rotating whenever
the engine is running.
Throttle Control
Your engine is equipped with a constant speed throttle,
which is set at full throttle for best performance.
Starter
Rope
Starter Rope
The starter rope is attached to the handle. Stand behind
the unit and pull the starter rope to start the unit.
Primer
The primer is used to pump gas into the carburetor. Use
it to start a cold engine, but do not use it to restart a
warm engine after a short shutdown.
Trail Shield
Mulching Plug
The mulching plug is used only for mulching purposes.
This process recirculates the clippings back to the lawn.
Do not operate the mower if the mulching plug is not
firmly situated on the unit.
Discharge
Chute
Mulch
Plug
Figure 7
8
Height
Adjustment
Lever
SECTION 5: OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER
•
WARNING: Keep hands and feet away from
the chute area on cutting deck. The blade will
be rotating whenever the engine is running.
•
WARNING: Be sure no one other than the
operator is standing near the lawn mower while
starting the engine or operating the mower.
WARNING: Never run engine indoors or in
enclosed, poorly ventilated areas. Engine
exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an
odorless and deadly gas.
Stopping Engine and Blade
•
Gas and Oil Fill-Up
•
for a few seconds after the engine is shut off.
Do not touch the blade in any way while it is still
rotating.
•
engine running or until the engine has been
allowed to cool for at least two minutes after
running.
•
Your mower was shipped at the lowest cutting
height. For best results in mowing, keep the cutting
height position high until it is determined which
height is best for your lawn.
Refer to height adjustments section of this manual
on page 10 for instruction on how to adjust the
cutting height and the handle height.
•
Before Starting
•
•
Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. Make certain
the metal cap on the end of the spark plug wire
(inside the rubber boot) is fastened securely over
the metal tip on the spark plug.
Be sure that lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or
other objects which could damage lawn mower or
engine. Such objects could be accidently thrown by
the mower in any direction and cause serious
personal injury to the operator and others.
For best results, do not cut wet grass because it
tends to stick to the underside of the mower,
preventing proper discharge of grass clippings, and
could cause you to slip and fall. New grass, thick
grass or wet grass may require a narrower cut.
Speed of the mower should be adjusted to the
condition of the lawn.
For a healthier lawn, always cut off one-third or less
of the total length of grass. Lawn should be mowed
in the fall season as long as there is growth.
WARNING: If you strike a foreign object,
stop the engine. Remove wire from spark plug,
thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage,
and repair the damage before restarting and
operating the mower. Extensive vibration of the
mower during operation is an indication of
damage. The unit should be promptly
inspected and repaired
To Start Engine and Engage Blade
•
•
Disconnect spark plug wire and ground it against
the engine to prevent accidental starting while
equipment is unattended.
Using Your Rotary Mower
Adjusting Cutting Height
•
Release the blade control handle to stop the engine
and the blade.
WARNING: The blade continues to rotate
Service the mower engine with gasoline and oil
following instructions in the engine manual. If your
mower was shipped with oil in the engine, fill up the
required amount of gasoline only. Always make
sure there is adequate oil in the engine before
starting the engine. Fill up as necessary.
WARNING: Never fill fuel tank indoors, with
•
Grasp starter handle and pull rope out slowly until
engine reaches start of compression cycle (rope
will pull slightly harder at this point). Let the rope
rewind slowly.
Pull rope with a rapid, continuous, full arm stroke.
Keep a firm grip on starter handle. Return it slowly
to the rope guide. If you encounter any problems,
refer to the Trouble Shooting Guide for helpful
information.
Prime engine as instructed in the engine manual.
Standing behind the unit, depress the blade control
handle and hold it against the upper handle.
9
SECTION 6: MAKING ADJUSTMENTS
Carburetor
WARNING: Do not at any time make any
Minor carburetor adjustments may be required to
compensate for differences in fuel, temperature,
altitude and load. To adjust carburetor, refer to the
engine manual.
adjustment to your lawn mower without first
stopping the engine and disconnecting the
spark plug wire.
Handle Height
NOTE: A dirty air cleaner will cause an engine to run
rough. Make sure air cleaner is clean and attached to
the carburetor before adjusting carburetor.
Your mower is shipped with the handle in the higher
height position.To lower the handle height for your
convenience, proceed as follows.
WARNING: If any adjustments are made to
the engine while the engine is running (e.g.
carburetor), keep clear of all moving parts and
heated surfaces (e.g. muffler).
Lower
Handle
Cutting Height
Notch
An adjusting plate and thumb lever at each wheel
position provides cutting height adjustment. Each
adjusting plate has nine height positions. Height of cut
will be changed when the thumb lever is moved from
one hole to another.
Figure 8
•
•
•
•
•
•
Remove the starter rope from the rope guide.
Remove the upper handle by removing the hand
knobs and carriage bolts. Lay the upper handle out
of the way, being careful not to bend or kink cables.
Remove the hairpin clips from the weld pins on the
handle brackets. Press outward on the legs of the
lower handle, and remove it from the mower.
Turn the lower handle around so the notches on the
bottom of the lower handle are facing forward as
shown in Figure 8. Reassemble, placing the bottom
holes in the handle over the weld pins in the handle
mounting bracket.
Reassemble the upper handle.
Place the hairpin clips in the inner holes in the weld
pins. Reattach the starter rope.
•
Simply depress the lever towards wheel and move
wheel and lever assembly to desired position. All
wheels must be placed in the same relative
position. See Figure 9.
Height
Adjustment
Lever
Figure 9
SECTION 7: MAINTAINING YOUR LAWN MOWER
with light oil. See Figure 10. The blade control must
operate freely in both directions.
WARNING: Always stop engine and
disconnect spark plug wire before cleaning,
lubricating or doing any kind of maintenance
work on lawn mower.
Wheels
•
Lubrication
Blade Control
•
Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control
handle and the brake cable at least once a season
10
Lubricate the wheel bearings (if so equipped) at
least once a season with light oil (or engine oil).
Also, if the wheels are removed for any reason,
lubricate the surface of the axle bolt and the inner
surface of the wheel with light oil. See Figure 10.
Engine
•
Follow engine manual for lubrication instructions.
Blade
Adapter
Blade Bell Support
Lubricate
Hex Bolt
Lubricate
Figure 11
•
Lubricate
Before reinstalling the blade and the blade adapter
to the unit, lubricate the engine crankshaft and the
inner surface of the blade adapter with light oil (or
engine oil).Also lubricate the bolt holes and bolts.
To Reinstall Blade:
•
Be sure to install the blade with the side of the
blade marked “Bottom” (or with part number) facing
the ground when the mower is in the operating
position.
• Make sure the blade is aligned with and seated
onto the blade adapter flanges.
• Place blade bell support on blade. Make sure the
notches on the blade bell support are aligned with
the small holes in the blade. See Figure 11.
• Replace hex bolt. Tighten to recommended torque.
Blade Torque: 450 in. lbs. min., 600 in. lbs. max.
Figure 10
NOTE: When tipping the unit, empty fuel tank and keep
engine spark plug side up.
Cutting Blade
•
WARNING: When removing the cutting
blade for sharpening or replacement, protect
hands by using heavy gloves or a rag to grasp
the cutting blade.
Cutting Deck
•
To remove blade:
•
Remove the bolt and blade bell support which hold
the blade and adapter to the engine crankshaft.
See Figure 11. Remove the blade and the adapter
from the crankshaft.
•
WARNING: Periodically inspect the blade
adapter for cracks, especially if you strike a
foreign object. Replace when necessary.
•
•
To ensure safe operation of mower, check all nuts
and bolts periodically for correct torque.
The underside of the mower deck should be
cleaned after each use to prevent a build-up of
grass clippings, leaves, dirt or other matter. If this
debris is allowed to accumulate, it will invite rust
and corrosion, and may prevent proper mulching.
The deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower and
scraping clean with a suitable tool (make certain the
spark plug wire is disconnected).
NOTE: We do not recommend the use of pressure
washers or garden hose to clean your unit. They may
cause damage to electric components, spindles,
pulleys, bearings or the engine. The use of water will
shorten life and reduce serviceability.
When sharpening the blade, follow the original
angle of grind as a guide. It is extremely important
that each cutting edge receives an equal amount of
grinding to prevent an unbalanced blade. An
unbalanced blade will cause excessive vibration
when rotating at high speeds, may damage the
mower and/or cause personal injury.
The blade can be tested by balancing it on a round
shaft screwdriver. Remove metal from the heavy
side until it balances evenly. It is recommended that
the blade always be removed from the adapter for
the best test of balance.
Engine
•
•
•
11
Refer to the engine manual for all engine
maintenance instructions.
Maintain engine oil as instructed in the engine
manual.
Service air cleaner every 25 hours of operation
under normal conditions. Clean every few hours
under extremely dusty conditions. Poor engine
•
Clean engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep
the cooling system (blower housing area) cleaned
to permit proper air circulation which is essential to
engine performance and life. Make sure to remove
all grass, dirt and combustible debris from muffler
area.
The following steps should be taken to prepare lawn
mower for storage.
•
•
•
Refer to engine manual for correct engine storage
instructions.
Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis grease to
prevent rusting.
Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next
to corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.
•
performance and flooding usually indicates that the
air cleaner should be serviced. To service the air
cleaner, refer to the engine manual.
The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap
reset once a season. Spark plug replacement is
recommended at the start of each mowing season;
check engine manual for correct plug type and gap
specifications.
SECTION 8: OFF-SEASON STORAGE
Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as described
in the lubrication instructions.
•
NOTE: We do not recommend the use of pressure
washers or garden hose to clean your unit. They may
cause damage to electric components, spindles,
pulleys, bearings or the engine. The use of water will
result in shortened life and reduce serviceability.
NOTE: When storing any type of power equipment in
an unventilated or metal storage shed, care should be
taken to rust-proof the equipment. Using a light oil or
silicone, coat the lawn mower, especially cables and all
moving parts, before storing it for the off-season.
12
SECTION 9: TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE
Trouble
Engine fails to start
Engine runs erratic
Engine overheats
Occasional skip
(hesitates) at high
speed
Idles poorly
Possible Cause(s)
1. Blade control handle disengaged.
2. Spark plug wire disconnected.
3. Fuel tank empty, or stale fuel.
4. Blocked fuel line.
5. Faulty spark plug.
6. Engine flooded.
1. Spark plug wire loose.
2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.
3. Vent in gas cap plugged.
4. Water or dirt in fuel system.
5. Dirty air cleaner.
6. Carburetor out of adjustment.
1. Engine oil level low.
2. Air flow restricted.
3. Carburetor not adjusted properly.
1. Spark plug gap too close.
1. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too
wide.
2. Carburetor improperly adjusted.
3. Dirty air cleaner.
Excessive vibration 1. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced.
2. Bent cutting blade.
Mower will not mulch 1. Wet grass.
grass
2. Excessively high grass.
Uneven cut
3. Dull blade.
1. Wheels not positioned correctly.
2. Dull blade.
13
Corrective Action
1. Engage blade control handle.
2. Connect wire to spark plug.
3. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.
4. Clean fuel line.
5. Clean, adjust gap or replace.
6. Wait a few minutes to restart. Do not prime.
1. Connect and tighten spark plug wire.
2. Clean fuel line; fill tank with fresh gasoline.
3. Clear vent.
4. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.
5. Clean air cleaner.
6. Adjust carburetor.
1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.
2. Remove blower housing and clean.
3. Adjust carburetor.
1. Adjust gap to .030”.
1. Reset gap to.030” or replace spark plug.
2.
3.
1.
2.
1.
2.
Adjust carburetor.
Clean air cleaner.
Tighten blade and adapter. Balance blade.
Replace blade.
Wait until later to cut.
Mow once at a high cutting height, then mow
again at desired height or make a narrower
cutting swath (1/2 width).
3. Sharpen or replace blade.
1. Place all four wheels in same height position.
2. Sharpen or replace blade.
SECTION 10: PARTS LIST FOR MODEL 573
1
6
13
2
4
3
52
10
7
For engine parts break-down,
refer to the engine manual
8
15
11
46
9
5
50
17
14
28
21
27
26
23
16
30
31
53
12
35
45
29
47
49 51
19
33
32
34
48
22
20
19
37
18
26 21
31
26
38
39
19
27
36
41
42
24
23
25
43
44
14
Model 573
Ref. No.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
Part No.
747-0824
710-1270
712-0324
746-0883
738-0878
749-0705A
710-1205
710-1174
749-0928A
720-0279
720-0284
714-0104
746-0555
750-0151
726-0240
17098
731-0872A
682-0139
736-0105
720-0426
732-0404
734-2005A
736-0504
738-0102
731-1426
738-0507B
15262B
682-0518
Ref. No.
Description
Control Handle
Oval C-Sunk Screw
Hex Lock Nut
Control Housing
Rear Axle
Upper Handle
Rope Guide
Carriage Bolt
Lower Handle
Wing Nut
Hand Knob
Hairpin Clip
Control Cable 55”
Spacer
Cable Tie
Hinge Clip
Trail Shield
Cutting Deck Assembly: 20”
Bell Washer
Knob: Height Adjustment
Lever: Spring
Front Wheel Assy. 8 x 2.125”
Wave Washer
Axle Bolt: Front
Hubcap: Radial Spoke, Yellow
Shoulder Bolt
Pivot Bar
Handle Bracket Assembly RH
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
Part No.
682-0517
736-0331
732-0731
14578
14579
782-7006
736-0270
710-0599
710-0654A
731-1409
682-7002
712-0431
15261A
748-0376C
753-0588
742-0740
736-0524A
710-1044
747-0710
736-0451
712-0798
712-0328
712-3020
734-2043
736-3050
731-04123
738-04032
NOTE: For painted parts, please refer to
the list of color codes below. Please add
the applicable color code, wherever
needed, to the part number to order a
replacement part. For instance, if a part
numbered 700-xxxx is painted Yard-Man
Green, the part number to order would be
700-xxxx-0665.
Yard-Man Green: 0665
Yard-Man Yellow: 0674
Powder Black: 0637
15
Description
Handle Bracket Assembly LH
Bell Washer
Torsion Spring
Height Adjust. Assembly RH
Height Adjust. Assembly LH*
Mounting Bracket
Bell Washer
Hex Washer Hd. TT Screw
TT Sems Screw
Chute Deflector
Mulching Plug Assembly
Hex Lock Nut
Height Adjustment Plate
Blade Adapter
Blade Adapter Kit (for service)
20” Mulching Blade
Blade Bell Support
Hex Bolt
Hinge Pin
Saddle Washer
Lock Nut
Hex Nut 3/8-24
Lock Nut
Rear Wheel 14 x 2.125”
Flat Washer
Engine Shroud
Hex Bolt #10-32 x 0.30”
MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR:
The limited warranty set forth below is given by MTD LLC
with respect to new merchandise purchased and used in
the United States, its possessions and territories.
MTD LLC warrants this product against defects for a
period of two (2) years commencing on the date of original
purchase and will, at its option, repair or replace, free of
charge, any part found to be defective in materials or
workmanship. This limited warranty shall only apply if this
product has been operated and maintained in accordance
with the Operator’s Manual furnished with the product, and
has not been subject to misuse, abuse, commercial use,
neglect, accident, improper maintenance, alteration,
vandalism, theft, fire, water, or damage because of other
peril or natural disaster. Damage resulting from the
installation or use of any accessory or attachment not
approved by MTD LLC for use with the product(s) covered
by this manual will void your warranty as to any resulting
damage.
Normal wear parts or components thereof are subject to
separate terms as follows: All normal wear parts or
component failures will be covered on the product for a
period of 90 days regardless of cause. After 90 days, but
within the two year period, normal wear part failures will be
covered ONLY IF caused by defects in materials or
workmanship of OTHER component parts. Normal wear
parts and components include, but are not limited to:
batteries, belts, blades, blade adapters, grass bags, rider
deck wheels, seats, snow thrower skid shoes, shave
plates, auger spiral rubber, and tires.
HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is
available, WITH PROOF OF PURCHASE, through your
local authorized service dealer. To locate the dealer in
your area, check your Yellow Pages, or contact MTD LLC
at P.O. Box 361131, Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019, or call
1-800-800-7310 or log on to our Web site at
www.mtdproducts.com.
This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the
following cases:
a. The engine or component parts thereof. These
items
carry a separate manufacturer’s warranty.
Refer to applicable manufacturer’s warranty for
terms and conditions.
b. Log splitter pumps, valves, and cylinders have
a separate one year warranty.
c. Routine maintenance items such as lubricants,
filters, blade sharpening, tune-ups, brake
adjustments, clutch adjustments, deck
adjustments, and normal deterioration of the
exterior finish due to use or exposure.
d. MTD LLC does not extend any warranty for
products sold or exported outside of the United
States, its possesions and territories, except
those sold through MTD LLC’s authorized
channels of export distribution.
e. Parts that are not genuine MTD parts are not
covered by this warranty.
f. Service completed by someone other than an
authorized service dealer is not covered by this
warranty.
g. Transportation charges and service calls are
not covered.
No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of
merchantability of fitness for a particular purpose, applies
after the applicable period of express written warranty
above as to the parts as identified. No other express
warranty, whether written or oral, except as mentioned
above, given by any person or entity, including a dealer or
retailer, with respect to any product, shall bind MTD LLC.
During the period of the warranty, the exclusive remedy is
repair or replacement of the product as set forth above.
The provisions as set forth in this warranty provide the sole
and exclusive remedy arising from the sale. MTD LLC
shall not be liable for incidental or consequential loss or
damage including, without limitation, expenses incurred
for substitute or replacement lawn care services or for
rental expenses to temporarily replace a warranted
product.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of
incidental or consequential damages, or limitations on how
long an implied warranty lasts, so the above exclusions or
limitations may not apply to you.
In no event shall recovery of any kind be greater than the
amount of the purchase price of the product sold.
Alteration of safety features of the product shall void
this warranty. You assume the risk and liability for loss,
damage, or injury to you and your property and/or to others
and their property arising out of the misuse or inability to
use the product.
This limited warranty shall not extend to anyone other than
the original purchaser or to the person for whom it was
purchased as a gift.
HOW STATE LAW RELATES TO THIS WARRANTY: This
limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may
also have other rights which vary from state to state.
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019; Phone: 1-800-800-7310